Description
Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a quick and easy one-pan meal featuring smoky sausage in a rich, garlic-infused cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting dish is packed with flavor and ready in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds. Finely chop the garlic and onion. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 3–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine Everything: Return the sausage to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Stir everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan for cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for a different taste.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for turkey sausage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: pasta dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Creamy smoked sausage pasta, one-pan pasta, quick pasta recipe, easy sausage pasta, creamy garlic pasta